A 1976 honors graduate in law enforcement from Columbus State, Demko's life has been one of adventure and achievement.

Shortly after graduating high school, Demko enlisted in the Marines and served in Viet Nam, where he was decorated six times for his combat leadership. His awards included the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry and two Navy Marine Commendations.

After earning his associate degree at Columbus State, Demko went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Ohio Dominican University. He has taught Columbus State's Criminal Evidence and Procedures class.

He joined the Reynoldsburg Police Department, and in 1976 he was named the Reynoldsburg Police Department Officer of the Year. He left Reynoldsburg to work as director of public safety for Licking Memorial Hospital. His last career stop led him to Ohio State University's Newark branch where he eventually retired as the director of public safety.

Demko's "side accomplishments" are impressive: He's been a fingerprint expert for the FBI, president of the Ohio Crime Prevention Association, and a board member for Newark Crime Stoppers. He supports veterans by making repeated trips to the Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C. He even published two successful crime novels - Flaming Sundown and Ace.

Demko credits some of his success to the time spent at Columbus State both as a student and a teacher.

"I enjoyed my experiences with Columbus State, both as a student and an instructor. I enjoyed the atmosphere and was happy with the knowledge I acquired. It became pretty important for me to return to campus as an instructor."